This Qseven Pad Demonstration Platform vividly illustrates the flexibility of modular programming and its ability to drastically reduce the design time and complexity of compact equipment, such as an industrial Tablet PC.

It’s based on congatec’s class-leading Qseven module conga-QMX6, which features Freescale’s latest i.MX6 processor, providing scalability from a single- to a dual- and even quad-core processor in the same low-power high-performance form factor. Using ARM’s state-of-the-art Cortex-A9 processor, with fully integrated graphics acceleration, enables the conga-QMX6 to deliver the low power and high performance needed in highly demanding applications and portable devices such as a ruggedized Tablet PC.

As many Tablet PCs are now based on ARM’s Cortex-A9, a Tablet PC featuring a conga-QMX6 would have exactly the same performance as a full-custom design using the same, or similar, processor but with significantly less design cost and complexity.

The Demonstration Platform runs an embedded Linux version. However, this Platform is also capable of running other operating systems such as Android or Microsoft Windows Embedded Compact 7 (WEC7).

congatec’s R&D Manager, Carsten Rebmann, commented: “This demonstration platform is intended to show how the flexibility and scalability of modular computing can be quickly and easily configured to target applications with even the most demanding requirements.”

Most Tablet PCs are still commonly developed using a full-custom approach, which introduces unnecessary complexity. The Demonstration Platform uses standard components; further adaptations can be implemented easily by creating a customer-specific carrier board. The standard carrier board can be used as a perfect base to add specific functionalities. Customized tablet computers can be created fast and with less design risk.

Tablet PCs are increasingly common in the industrial sector and are used to provide remote HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces) as well as local control. Industrial installations often span large distances; with a Tablet PC operators are able to take the control interface with them as they operate the machine.

The congatec Tablet Demonstration Platform is on display at congatec’s stand at embedded world 2013 in Hall 1 Stand 3.